...comes from the home office minister John Denham. As the government publishes new legislation to crack down on soccer violence, he says:

"Last year the conduct of England and English club fans abroad was the best for many years. This is a tribute to the fans. It also reflects increased success in identifying trouble-makers and preventing them from travelling.

"We want to see similar success this year from the England-Germany game in September through further World Cup, Euro 2004 and English club fixtures. I have asked the police to be better prepared than ever before to use the new powers to target known trouble-makers.

"People intent on violence not only threaten English football and this country's reputation, they also face a higher than ever chance of being stopped from travelling or, if they are involved in violence abroad, being banned from all football matches on their return."